What is the focus of relicensing?
At relicensing, FERC reassesses use of the resources affected by the hydro project by applying current laws and regulations to such topics as land use, recreation, water, habitat, endangered species, and historical and cultural values. In making this assessment, FERC must give “equal consideration” to power and non-power uses. Relicensing provides the licensee, resource agencies, and the public the opportunity to comment on these issues in the context of project facilities and operations. Through this process, FERC makes sure that the new license is consistent with a comprehensive plan for use of the affected resources.
